Importance

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Abstract

An implantable electrode, where the electrode comprises a first piezoelectric element which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, and a cathode and an anode, where electrical energy generated by the first piezoelectric element causes a pacing level energy pulse to be delivered between the anode and the cathode. The mechanical energy for stimulating the piezoelectric element originates from a source external to the implantable electrode. In one embodiment, the external source is from a transmitter that is located on, or integrated into, either a cardiac lead and/or the implantable pulse generator. The electrode further includes an implantable housing into which is integrated the first piezoelectric element and on which is mounted the anode and the cathode. The housing also contains pacing control circuitry, which is coupled to the first piezoelectric element, the anode and the cathode. In one embodiment, the pacing control circuitry serves to receive the electrical energy generated by the first piezoelectric element and control the delivery of pacing level energy pulse between the anode and the cathode.

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First Claim